Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement

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A recent advance in the performance of total knee replacement is the use of minimally invasive surgical approaches. This technique, still in its relative earlystages, is more challenging than standard total knee replacement. The incisions are approximately half the size of those used in a standard approach. The smaller incisions and new techniques to expose the joint may result in short-term advantages such as a quicker rehabilitation, less pain, and a shorter hospitalization,

The minimally invasive approach to the total knee replacement is appropriate for non-obese patients who have reasonable motion without significant deformity. Hospitalization may be reduced among these patients, and the need for an extended stay for inpatient rehabilitation may be reduced or eliminated in most patients.

Although some studies show shorter hospitalizations and rehabilitation periods, other studies find minimally invasive surgical techniques to be no better than standard techniques. Although the risks are not well known, they are probably comparable to those for a standard total knee replacement. You will have to discuss whether you are an appropriate candidate for this particular approach to total knee replacement.